I don't know where I would be in ballroom without my ballet technique. First of all, beyond balance, confidence, grace, and posture, it teaches you the art of pull up. Something that is necessary no matter how much you rely on your partner. Also, for a beginner dancer, it strengthens your legs very quickly through the use of repetitive, strenuous (in a good way) exercises. Yes, it will teach you to think up, but the "light" aspect is merely a cover and one will find that every movement is indeed an effort. I have found some difficulty transitioning into latin, as in ballet you are practically scolded if you move your hips in any way, and yes the auto-turn out can be kind of a problem, but you cannot beat the focus, technique, and cardio-vascualr benefits ballet and ballet alone has to offer. I wouldn't focus on it, but I cannot think of any better supplement to a strong ballroom program.